5 People Who Are Hoarding Twinkies After The Hostess Shutdown

Friday marks the end of an era for one of the most enduring American icons of the past century: the Twinkie. Hostess, the company that produces what is arguably America’s favorite baked good, announced it would be shutting down because of a strike by members of the Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers International Union.

According to Hostess, the company does not have the financial resources to endure a long-term strike of its workers, and it has begun the process of liquidating its assets, laying off 18,500 workers, and selling its brand names to the highest bidder.

"We deeply regret the necessity of today's decision, but we do not have the financial resources to weather an extended nationwide strike," CEO Gregory Rayburn told CNNMoney.

Naturally, this is a disturbing development for fans of the Hostess icon, the Twinkie. Preparing for the possibility the Twinkie may never return to American store shelves, fans have been stocking up on the tasty treat, and Twitter is full of some amazing pictures of people’s stashes. Check out some of the best shots above.